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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 488


Page 488 of 512

How're your cells' motors running?

Researchers discovered that two types of 'kinesin' molecular motors coordinate differently, with kinesin-1 working independently and kinesin-14 interacting to tune transport speed. This breakthrough expands understanding of cellular processes and basic life functions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 22, 2020

Study uncovers unexpected connection between gliomas, neurodegenerative diseases

A recent study discovered a connection between glioma cells expressing the protein TAU and better patient outcomes. The presence of TAU helped regulate blood vessel formation, contributing to tumor aggression. Researchers suggest TAU levels could serve as a biomarker for tumor progression in IDH1/2 mutant gliomas.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 22, 2020

Physicist obtain atomically thin molybdenum disulfide films on large-area substrates

Researchers have developed a method to synthesize large-area, atomically thin molybdenum disulfide films with modified structures depending on the synthesis temperature. The resulting films show promise for use in electronic devices and optical communication, with potential breakthroughs in transparent and flexible electronics.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateJan 22, 2020

Influenza vaccination of children cuts hospitalization in half: Ben-Gurion U. researchers

A new study published in Clinical Infectious Disease found that fully vaccinating children reduced the risk of hospitalization for influenza complications by 54%. The research, led by Dr. Hannah Segaloff and Prof. Mark Katz, validated guidelines recommending two vaccine doses for children under 8 who have never been vaccinated or recei...

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJan 21, 2020

To reverse engineer dynamics of microbial communities, researchers construct their own

Researchers at the University of Illinois constructed synthetic microbial communities to study their dynamics and predict behavior. The study found that increasing variability in microbial interactions drives community structure, and that characterizing this variation can empower predictions of ecosystem succession.

Visits to pediatricians on the decline

Commercially insured children in the US see pediatricians less often, with primary care visits decreasing by 14% and problem-based visits declining by 24%. The trend may be driven by higher out-of-pocket costs and changes in healthcare behaviors, including increased use of telemedicine and urgent care.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateJan 21, 2020

Let the europium shine brighter

Researchers at Hokkaido University developed a stacked nanocarbon antenna that makes europium shine brighter than previous designs, with potential to create more efficient photosensitizers. The new design uses low-energy blue light absorption, reducing energy loss and enabling photodynamic therapy applications.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateJan 21, 2020

Taming electrons with bacteria parts

Researchers created an artificial electron transfer system by modifying a protein from bacteria, which can be used to produce medicines and biofuels. The system works by guiding electrons through short 'pit stops' made of heme molecules, allowing for more efficient energy transfer.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateJan 21, 2020

Insecticides are becoming more toxic to honey bees

Researchers found that neonicotinoid seed treatments have driven a significant increase in insecticide toxicity to honey bees, particularly oral-based toxic loads, which rose by 9-fold across the US. The study highlights the need for mitigation and conservation efforts in regions with high levels of insecticide use.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 21, 2020

Drug combo reverses arthritis in rats

A combination of two experimental drugs has reversed osteoarthritis in rats, with improved cartilage thickness and reduced cell death. The treatment may potentially translate to human use, offering a promising therapy for millions of adults affected by the disease.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProtein & Cell·DateJan 21, 2020

Zebrafish teach researchers more about atrial fibrillation

Researchers have found a possible link between a genetic variation and atrial fibrillation in zebrafish, suggesting a structural defect in the heart muscle and mitochondria. Early treatment with antioxidants may prevent the disorder in fish, but more research is needed to understand its human implications.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2020

A model ecosystem fish story

A study led by Michigan State University researchers found that a collective model created by over 200 anglers and fishing club members accurately predicted pike populations, habitat, and fishing pressure. The results show that involving diverse interest groups improves the accuracy of the solution.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateJan 21, 2020

Cybercrime: Internet erodes teenage impulse controls

A new study by Flinders University finds that teenagers' online impulsivity is a significant risk factor for cybercrime. The internet's blurring of social boundaries encourages thrill-seeking behavior, which can lead to digital piracy, pornography, and hacking. The researchers suggest that policy interventions should take into account ...

SourceFlinders University·JournalEuropean Journal of Criminology·DateJan 21, 2020

Women still face barriers to breastfeed at work

Despite federal guidelines in place, many working mothers struggle to access breastfeeding resources such as private rooms, lactation consultants, and breast pumps. Experts recommend employers designate a point person for breastfeeding support to improve work-life balance for new mothers.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalWorkplace Health & Safety·DateJan 21, 2020

Bend and snap: New interventions for rib fractures

A new multicenter study finds that stabilizing fractured and partially dislocated ribs through surgical stabilization improves patient outcomes, with reduced pain, increased comfort, and lower complication rates. Patients who underwent the procedure experienced better quality of life and fewer complications compared to those who did not.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery·DateJan 21, 2020

How fruit flies flock together in orderly clusters

Researchers discovered that fruit flies use fly-fly interactions to establish regular spacing in clusters, driven by a balance between congregating and maintaining personal space. Depriving the flies of their senses results in abnormal responses and high failure rates in cluster formation.

SourceeLife·DateJan 21, 2020

Human-sparked fires smaller, less intense but more frequent with longer seasons

A CU Boulder-led study reveals human-sparked fires are becoming more frequent and occurring over longer seasons, presenting new challenges for U.S. wildfire managers and firefighters. The shift toward more human-caused fires results in decreased fire intensity and size, but may not be a good thing due to changes in ecosystem roles.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateJan 21, 2020